The Wildlife Conservation Department (DWC) has announced the phased reopening of several national parks and tourist accommodations that were temporarily closed due to adverse weather conditions experienced across the country since 28 November.
With the gradual improvement of weather conditions, the DWC has reopened the following parks and lodges:
December 1, 2025
Hortonthenna National Park
Kumana National Park
Yala National Park (Zones 1–4) for day visitors
December 3, 2025
Yala National Park (Palatupana Entrance)
Heenwewa, Ondachchi, Mahasilawa, New Butawa, and Old Butawa Tourist Lodges
Wilpattu National Park and Maradanmaduwa Forest Lodge
Kumana National Park and Thummulla and Kirigalpotha Tourist Lodges
Horton Plains National Park and Ginihiraya and Maha Eliya Tourist Lodges
Minneriya National Park and Rambawila Tourist Lodge
December 5, 2025
Yala National Park (Katagamuwa Entrance)
Pahalahentota and Thalgasmankada Tourist Lodges
December 7, 2025
Old Ferry Tourist House and Warahana Tourist House in Yala National Park
December 8, 2025
Yala National Park (Zone 5)
Kudagalamuna Tourist House
Wasgamuwa National Park and Kadurupitiya Tourist House
December 10, 2025
Menik Vila and Lunu Wewa Tourist Houses in Wilpattu National Park
The DWC noted that other tourist lodges in Wilpattu and Wasgamuwa are scheduled for renovation and will be reopened in due course. Additionally, temporarily closed campsites and other tourist activities across national parks are expected to resume when conditions permit.
The department advised visitors to remain vigilant and prioritize safety by adhering to recommended routes and guidelines while touring the parks.
